westernu.ca/sciuwo.ca/chem/undergraduate/docs/science_viewbook.pdfwestern’s integrated science...

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Welcome to the Faculty of Science at Western University, one of

Canada’s finest institutions of advanced learning. Our diverse

community is comprised of nearly 6,000 undergraduate students

taught by faculty from eight departments in Science and seven in the

Basic Medical Sciences. Each member of Western Science contributes

distinct character, interests and strengths that, combined, result in a

mosaic of dynamic, socially-engaged scholars.

The Western undergraduate academic experience is unique in Canada,

offering the gift of choice to design a custom course of study that

ultimately helps you meet your career aspirations. Students can

choose from approximately 140 modules and 480 courses in Science

and Basic Medical Sciences, combine modules across departments

and faculties, and pursue dual degrees with professional schools,

including one of the finest business schools in the world.

We aspire to be the catalyst for your eureka moments – in the

classroom, in the lab, and in the field. National 3M Teaching Award-

winning instructors, Canada Research Chairs, and the largest number

of Industry Research Chairs in Science at any Ontario university will

share their expertise and passion for science while facilitating your

learning by using novel techniques, cutting-edge technologies, unique

facilities, and inspiring local, national and international venues.

Our community is committed to engaging Western Science students

in high-impact and interdisciplinary learning. Inaugurated in 2016,

Western’s Integrated Science program is the jewel in our crown of both

advanced and applied learning at the undergraduate level. Students

interested in exploring societal issues and developing science-based

solutions will thrive in this challenging multi-dimensional program.

From hands-on experiences in labs and world-class research facilities,

academic exchanges and field schools that take place on three

different continents, to capstone projects, community-engaged

learning and our 8–16-month internships in the public and private

sectors, Western Science students graduate inspired, and with

marketable skills in their field of choice.

Among the most breathtaking campuses in Canada, Western also

provides a warm, supportive and vibrant environment to help our

students grow as individuals, scholars and members of a life-long

international alumni community. Our academic counsellors facilitate

your introduction to university life. Internships and career teams

are available to guide your pursuit of opportunities and develop

your professional portfolio as a technical specialist. With multiple

associations and societies, and an active Science Students’ Council,

opportunities to engage in our rich student life are numerous.

Choosing a post-secondary institution is among the most important

decisions you will make. With this in mind, I invite you to explore our

2017 Viewbook to become more familiar with our programs and

services, and the people who make the Faculty of Science at

Western an extraordinary place to grow.

I hope that the prospect of a Western Science education motivates

you to consider joining our community.

Sincerely,

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Dr. Charmaine B. Dean, PhD Dean, Faculty of Science

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THEPROBLEM

EarthSciences

Chemistry

ComputerSciences

MathematicalSciences

Physics

Biology

Many of the biggest challenges facing humanity are interdisciplinary. Problems such as climate change are not limited to a

single science, but rather require expertise from a range of disciplines to come together to work on solutions.

Western’s Integrated Science program is a new approach to undergraduate education that provides a select group of students

the opportunity to address real-world problems by breaking down traditional discipline barriers.

What You’ll LearnWestern’s four-year honors program in Integrated Science (WISc)

will combine the focused coursework of a traditional science honors

degree with a unique set of courses in Integrated Science.

Through novel classroom and laboratory experiences, the WISc

courses will foster critical thinking and creative problem-solving as

students learn foundational scientific concepts and apply them to

a diversity of problems. Examples of the kinds of questions that will

be addressed include: Where did the fundamental forces of nature

come from? Why is Jupiter different than Earth? What is the chemistry

behind protein folding? What is life, and how did it arise? Why are

earthquakes so hard to predict? Can computers think? How does a

cell phone work?

Throughout Integrated Science, students will refine their critical

thinking and problem-solving skills. As well, the curriculum is designed

to build and strengthen teamwork, leadership abilities, and

community engagement.

Besides courses in Integrated Science, students will specialize in a

defined discipline (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth

Sciences, Mathematics, and/or Physics). This will provide graduates

with the focused education necessary to pursue further studies,

developing the expertise valued by both industry and academia.

Admission RequirementsSCIENCE (OUAC code: ES) INTEGRATED SCIENCE PROGRAM (OUAC code: ES)

MANDATORY +TWO COURSES FROM

English (ENG4U) Advanced Functions (MHF4U)

Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) Biology (SBI4U)

Chemistry (SCH4U)

Computer and Information

Science (ICS4U)

Earth and Space Sciences (SES4U)

Math and Data Management (MDM4U)

Physics (SPH4U)

Note: First-year Biology and Chemistry courses require Grade 12 Biology (SBI4U)

and Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4U), respectively. First-year Biology and

Chemistry courses are required for all modules offered by the Department

of Biology and some modules offered by the Department of Chemistry and

other Science departments.

Integrated Science students must complete Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4U).

BACHELOR OF MEDICAL SCIENCES PROGRAM (OUAC code: ESM)

English (ENG4U) Biology (SBI4U)

Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U) Chemistry (SCH4U)

Note: Although Western offers first-year physics courses that do not require high

school physics as a prerequisite, it is strongly recommended that students

complete Grade 12 Physics (SPH4U).

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Once You Have Been Granted Admission to WesternAssistance with course selection is available during Summer Academic

Orientation and is highly recommended. This service provides you the

opportunity to discuss your courses, attend learning skills sessions and a

student panel, take a tour of the campus and residences, set up a timetable

and a Western email account, and register for your courses.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.westerncalendar.uwo.ca/FirstYear

ABOUT INTEGRATED SCIENCE (WISc)

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.uwo.ca/sci/undergrad/future_students www.westerncalendar.uwo.ca

For For

ADMISSIONApproximately 6,000 undergraduate students are registered in Science and the Basic Medical Sciences.

Careers Graduates of Western’s Integrated Science program

will have a unique skill set allowing them to work more

effectively on some of today’s most pressing issues. This

will prepare students for a wide range of research careers in

the public and private sectors and develop the flexibility to

be effective in multiple endeavours. As well, it is expected

that other graduates will go on to professional programs

in medicine, dentistry, law and teaching.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.uwo.ca/sci/WISc

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Western ScholarsStudents entering full-time study with averages of 90% or more are

invited to be recognized as Western Scholars prior to the beginning of

their first year as part of the registration process. Western Scholars have

the opportunity to network with like-minded peers, Associate Deans, and

community leaders, and are invited to events exclusive to the Scholar

cohort. In upper years, Western Scholars can apply for the Scholar’s

Program Scholarship. Upon graduation, Western Scholars are recognized

for their academic achievement on both their transcript and diploma.

Scholar’s Electives ProgramThe goal of this program is to foster a community of scholars who have

a general intellectual curiosity about most disciplines. Those selected

will, in addition to their four-year honors degree courses, enrol in a

Scholar’s Elective module. Enrolment is limited to a select 50–75 full-time

students campus-wide who qualify for membership by having at least

a 90% admission average. Selection will be determined on the basis of

grades and personal accomplishments as detailed on a supplementary

admissions form.

ACADEMIC BENEFITS ANCILLARY BENEFITS

Create unique and exciting

theme areas within

your degree

More personal attention

Participate in university

research with a faculty mentor

Connect with other high-achieving

students in the program through

planned activities and events

Take interdisciplinary courses

exclusive to Scholar’s

Electives students

Scholarship opportunities in

upper years

Option of requesting the Scholar’s

Electives Floor in residence

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.success.uwo.ca/scholars/scholars_electives

EXCEPTIONAL PROGRAMS FOR HIGH-ACHIEVING STUDENTS

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Western’s Modular Degree Structure – Giving You the Power of ChoiceA module is a collection of courses that defines an area of concentration.

The number of courses included in the module is defined by the amount

of specialization in the topic. Western’s modular degree structure

gives you the opportunity to combine various subjects from different

departments and faculties. The specific courses included in each module

are determined by the Department, Faculty School or Affiliated University

College offering that module.

You Have Thousands of OptionsWestern’s modular system allows you to combine a Science module

with a module in another Science or non-Science discipline to tailor

your degree to fit your interests and aspirations. For example, if you

are planning to complete a four-year Honors Bachelor Degree, you

can pursue an Honors Specialization in Earth Sciences, combined

with a Minor in Philosophy. An honors degree can also be constructed

from two different major modules, either both in Science or one in

Science plus a non-Science. At Western, there are literally thousands

of possible combinations of modules.

Dual Degree ProgramsThere are cases where reaching a career goal requires more than one

degree or certificate. Western offers several combined and concurrent

programs so you can earn two degrees in less time, extend the scope

of your marketable skills and cross traditional borders in your

future careers.

COMBINED DEGREE

OPTIONS

CONCURRENT DEGREE

OPTIONS

Science/Medical Sciences and

Business (Ivey)

Science/Medical Sciences

and Engineering

Science and Nursing

Science and Music

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ACADEMIC PATHS

BIOLOGY, HEALTH SCIENCES,

MEDICAL SCIENCES… WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

BIOLOGY HEALTH SCIENCES MEDICAL SCIENCES

At Western University, programs in Biology

are offered by the Faculty of Science.

Modules offered by the Department of

Biology allow for the study of organisms at

different levels of biological organization –

from how organisms interact with each

other and the environment at the level of the

ecosystem through to the study of individual

genes in fruit flies in the laboratory.

The Faculty of Health Sciences at Western

University is distinct from the Faculty

of Sciences and the Schulich School of

Medicine & Dentistry.

Modules in Health Sciences focus on

the interdisciplinary study of health and

wellness in an ever-changing society, in

addition to domestic and international

health systems.

The Bachelor of Medical Sciences (BMSc)

Program is offered jointly by the Faculty of

Sciences and the Schulich School of Medicine

& Dentistry.

Modules offered by the Basic Medical

Sciences explore the molecular, cellular and

systematic organization of the human body

and the biological mechanisms it uses to

adapt to environmental changes and the

challenge of disease.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Many graduates with honors degrees in

Biology go on to graduate studies (MSc

and/or PhD) and professional schools.

There is a broad range of employment

opportunities for graduates with a Biology

background at all levels (BSc, MSc or PhD),

including:

• Government: agriculture, environment,

fisheries, and health

• Business and industry: research,

development and marketing in

biotechnology, consulting and healthcare

• Teaching: elementary, secondary or

post-secondary institutions

Health Studies graduates have successfully

established careers in a wide variety of

health-related fields, including:

• Health promotion

• Community health programming

• Public sector administration and

policy development areas (such as

Health Canada)

• Biomedical ethics

• Business and industry: wellness

and rehabilitation organizations,

pharmaceuticals

• Non-profit sector (such as the Heart and

Stroke Foundation and the Canadian

Cancer Society)

Many graduates with BMSc degrees in Basic

Medical Sciences modules go on to professional

schools (e.g., medicine or dentistry) and

graduate studies (MSc and/or PhD).

Other career/employment opportunities include:

• Law: bioethics, patent development for

medical products

• Business: biotechnology, marketing, research

and development, quality control

• Government laboratories: agriculture, marine,

and environmental sciences

• Industry: pharmaceuticals, biotechnology,

biosafety, regulation and enforcement

• Teaching: elementary, secondary or

post-secondary institutions

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

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Science Academic CounsellingScience Academic Counselling is your one-stop shop for academic

support in Science and the Basic Medical Sciences at Western. Our

counsellors focus their expertise on critical areas to address those

issues of greatest importance to our students, so they can proactively

support your academic journey towards the degree of your choice.

We understand the post-secondary context and will help you

navigate the system. Our team provides a confidential and secure

environment for discussion while guiding you through academic

challenges, identifying options and helping you through the

decision-making process.

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CONTACT US: Academic Counselling [email protected] www.uwo.ca/sci/undergrad/academic_counselling

Our team offers year-round

individual and group counselling

to facilitate your introduction to

university life, help you transition

into second year by addressing

issues like course and program

selection and guide your way to

graduation in the final year of

your undergraduate studies.

Academic Counselling

collaborates with Western

International and Indigenous

Services to offer culturally

sensitive interactions.

Our strong connection with

Student Health Services

ensures that the organization

works in concert to support

good physical and psychological

wellness within the student body.

Transfer and mature students

are provided tailored services

to facilitate the evaluation of

courses from other institutions to

ensure you have the prerequisites

you need to progress or receive

appropriate credit toward your

degree at Western.

WE ARE YOUR ACADEMIC ADVOCATES

CULTURAL DIVERSITY WELLNESSACADEMIC

EXPERIENCE CONNECTED

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

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Science InternshipsHigh-impact learning, professional development and career counselling

are available to all Western Science and Basic Medical Sciences students

through Science Internship and Career Services.

Students who have completed their third year of undergraduate study

have the option of participating in the Science Internship Program, which

prepares them to undertake a paid career-related placement for a term

ranging from eight to sixteen months.

A dedicated group of science, engineering, communications and business

professionals with technical and industry experience supports students

in their quest to develop marketable skills, gain work experience and be in

a position to gain employment post-graduation.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

INDUSTRY PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Career ServicesTransitioning from school to the workplace requires a plan that can

begin as soon as your first year on campus – and Western Science

Career Services can help you.

Our services range from providing tips on self-marketing strategies

in professional circles to guidance regarding job-search techniques

to facilitating network development through events like: networking

breakfasts; What to do with a Science Degree panel sessions; and

industry-specific Career Nights – all with prospective employers,

influential alumni, and industry experts. Jump-start your career

search here!

CONTACT US: Science Career Services [email protected] www.uwo.ca/sci/undergrad/career_services

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Recruitment and workplace skills

development workshops

Sourcing of career-focused internship

positions

Individualized resumé development

and editing

Consultation throughout the

employment process

Mock interview sessions

Gain employment

1 2 3 4 5 6

PharmaceuticalsSpecialty Chemicals

Software Development

Insurance and Financial

Medical Imaging

Resource Exploration

Food and Beverage

Agriculture and Environment

Fibre Optics

I took a two-week trip to Japan and found an advertisement for the branch of products I was working on. It was located in one of Tokyo’s main transit lines. This made me realize how important computer software is all around the world.

– David Gallant

The Science Internship Program gave me the opportunity to apply the knowledge I had gained from my three years at Western. This combination of education and experience provided me with the confidence to be successful in the workplace and acquire a permanent position following graduation.

– Margaret Weryk

Capstone ProjectsBoth the BSc and BMSc programs offer mentored research projects in

a world-class professor’s lab. This could be your hands-on introduction

to our cutting-edge facilities, science research, and may even result

in your first technical publication.

Science Internship ProgramGain significant work experience, ‘try on’ a career, and make valuable

contacts – all while earning a full salary. These 8- to 16-month paid

positions in industry and government are open to Year 3 students.

Science Discovery CaféExplore your interests in science with a small group of like-minded students who meet weekly with faculty or graduate student mentors.

Integrated Science (WISc)Combine all of the specialized knowledge of an honors degree with a broad

general science background and add marketable corporate skills to work

on cutting-edge problems that span the traditional science disciplines

leveraged in industry and academia.

www.uwo.ca/sci/WISc

International Learning Opportunities

Interested in experiencing a new culture, language or exotic venue

while developing your knowledge, skills and network? Western

encourages global exploration through exchanges and study abroad

programs with other universities, field schools, summer research,

internships and volunteer opportunities.

Summer ResearchWorking in a lab over the summer is a great way to explore your research

interests, develop technical skills, expand your network and

be mentored by world-class researchers and their graduate students.

The NSERC Undergraduate Summer Research Award, Western programs,

and individual researcher’s grants combine to offer a wide variety

of opportunities. You may even end up authoring your first

professional research paper!

In the summer of my third year, I was awarded a fellowship

under AAPM, which allowed me to contribute to proton therapy

research at the Massachusetts General Hospital. In addition

to providing me with the opportunity to work with brilliant

scientists from all over the world, this experience gave me

freedom to independently explore a different environment

and culture. This fellowship opened my eyes to a world of

possibilities as well as the value of international collaboration.

– Kimberley Lam (Year 4 BMSc – Honors Specialization in Medical Biophysics)

AT WESTERN SCIENCEHIGH-IMPACT LEARNING

Authentic Learning Contexts• Take courses that simulate the development arm of software

companies and game studios.

• Develop an innovative business plan to commercialize novel science

and emerging technologies by competing in the Proteus competition.

• Experience interdisciplinary science problem-solving as a participant

in the annual multi-university SCINAPSE Science Case Competition or

in Industry Problem-Solving Week.

• Receive course credit while attending the National Undergraduate

Capstone Open Source Project.

• Apply academic knowledge to exciting projects on the ground

in national and international locales; study forest ecology in the

Adirondacks, desert ecology in the American southwest, tropical

marine environments in Belize, and craters in the Sultanate of Oman.

The university experience is far more than the sum of your lectures and textbooks. At Western Science, you’ll experience research, hone practical skills with labs and field courses and build communications skills through written reports and presentations. We call it high-impact learning. You’ll call it highly rewarding.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENTS

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Applied Mathematics is the language of science. At Western, the

Department of Applied Mathematics models phenomena occurring

in the natural or social sciences in order to understand them and

make predictions. These phenomena occur in such widely differing

areas as the dispersal of pollutants in the environment, the flow

of blood in arteries, interactions among subatomic particles,

and the behaviour of financial markets. Our small classes and

student-to-instructor ratio provide our undergraduates with

enhanced opportunities to work closely with world-class faculty

who are genuinely interested in fostering discussion and

problem-solving ingenuity.

What You’ll LearnOur department offers undergraduate students a warm, friendly and

creative environment in which to learn about mathematical biology,

dynamical systems, scientific and symbolic computing, theoretical

physics and computational materials science. You will acquire the

necessary expertise and have access to powerful tools to solve complex

industry, business, natural, social and applied science-relevant problems.

CareersThe acquired skills of an applied mathematician are in demand in almost

every area of science and industry. Matrix algebra and calculus can be

used to build mathematical and computational models for pure scientific

research and industrial process innovation. They are used in areas ranging

from cancer therapy treatment design and liquid crystals development to

tracking evolutionary resistance to drug therapy. Many of our graduates

choose to pursue a graduate degree to specialize further in a specific

domain where their education enables work on the leading edge

of innovation.

Getting involved in summer research gave me the opportunity to work on problems that have real impact on how experiments could be carried out to study biological mutation.

It’s exciting to know that the powerful math and computing tools available to us today can bring a new approach to tackling problems as diverse as managing financial risk and controlling the spread of Ebola.

– Anna Zhu

Anna is the 2015 Dillon Gold Medal recipient and a two-time beneficiary of an NSERC Undergraduate Summer Research Award who turned her research experience into a peer-reviewed scientific article.

APPLIED

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Interdisciplinary Study

We offer, among others, modules that focus on

interdisciplinary connections such as the Honors

Specialization in Mathematical Science, a Major in

Scientific Computing and Numerical Methods and

a Major in Theoretical Physics. Students can also

pursue a concurrent degree in Engineering and

Applied Mathematics.

Research Opportunities

Students who are in their fourth year of an Honors

Specialization are offered opportunities to work on

research projects in close association with faculty

members, leading to an expanded applied skill set and

the potential to be included in the publication of

project results.

Model Champions

Students from Applied Mathematics compete each year

in the international COMAP Mathematical Contest in

Modeling against over 2,000 teams worldwide.

Western is consistently in the top 20 and twice have

been world champions.

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BIOLOGYThe breadth of modern biology is

reflected in the more than seventy

courses that are offered by the Biology

Department. Courses span the whole

range of student engagement from

intensive laboratory-only offerings that

start in second year to small fourth-year

seminars where the focus is on refining

communication skills. Students have

the freedom to focus on a particular

sub-discipline (e.g., genetics, animal

behaviour) or receive a broad education

that touches many areas of biology.

What You’ll LearnIn Biology, emphasis is placed on developing

critical thinking and communication skills,

expertise in experimental design and a strong

foundation in data analysis. Depending on

the area of concentration, more specific

skills acquired include the ability to assess

ecosystems, identify flora and fauna, effectively

implement tools of molecular biology and

microscopy and gain experience with the use

of analytical instrumentation.

CareersThe breadth of courses in the Biology

curriculum prepares graduates for a wide range

of research careers in the public and private

sectors. Many of our graduates also go on to

professional programs in medicine, dentistry,

law and teaching.

Completing an independent research project during my undergraduate studies has given me the opportunity to experience first-hand what it’s like to work in the genetics field.

Taylor recently completed an Honors Specialization in Genetics with a Minor in Psychology. She is President of Best Buddies Western and a member of the national association, a non-profit organization that promotes an inclusive and accepting environment for people with intellectual disabilities.


Excellence in Teaching and Learning

Led by Tom Haffie, a 3M National Teaching Fellow, faculty in our department strive

for excellence in undergraduate teaching and learning. Whether it's engaging 800

students in a first-year course by using cell phones or small fourth-year offerings

that focus on community-based group projects, Biology instructors employ novel

and innovative approaches to help students learn more effectively.

Unique Modules

The Department of Biology offers twelve different modules in a wide range of biology

disciplines. Here we highlight just two of these modules:

Honors Specialization in Genetics

This module reflects one of the core research strengths of the Department.

Students take a range of courses focused on gene structure, function and regulation

that introduce modern ‘omic’ approaches (e.g., genomics, transcriptomics,

proteomics) that are taught using a range of animal, plant and microbial systems.

Related topics such as genetic engineering and developmental genetics form the

basis of additional courses.

Honors Specialization in Biodiversity and Conservation

Students in this module will gain an understanding of the forces that are shaping

Earth’s ecosystems, including the impact of climate change on biological diversity.

Capstone courses in biodiversity science and restoration ecology, as well as

opportunities to do field research, are highlights of the module. Graduates will be

prepared to pursue a diverse array of careers from basic research to public policy in

a range of fields that are particularly pertinent in today’s rapidly changing world.

Field Courses in Unique Locations

As a Biology undergraduate, you will have an opportunity to do a research project

in an exotic location and get credit for it. The Department of Biology at Western is a

member of the Ontario Universities’ Program in Field Biology, which offers about 30

different field courses each year for academic credit. Examples of recent offerings

include: Rainforests and Reef Biology in Costa Rica; Tropical Marine Biology in

Belize; Forest Ecology in the Adirondacks; Field Ornithology in Virginia; and Tropical

Biodiversity in Ecuador.

It has opened doors for me to present my research at conferences, introduced me to many professionals in the field, but most importantly I feel that I have made a contribution to uncovering the genetics of intellectual disability!

– Taylor Lyons

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CHEMISTRYChemistry at Western is designed to provide a

foundation in the major themes of modern chemistry

as applied to the natural, industrial and commercial

worlds. This foundation allows for advanced studies

in a wide range of research areas, from materials to

energy, synthesis, biology, and biochemistry. We

focus on providing high-impact learning supported

by hands-on study in modern, learning-friendly

laboratories; part-time and summer employment in

research facilities under the guidance of world-class

faculty; career workshops and mock interviews; paid

work placements in industry or government; and a

capstone Thesis Research Course where students

conduct independent research, to ensure that our

students develop both essential and transferable skills

to successfully transition from Chemistry students

to professional chemists ready for the next phase of

their careers.

What You’ll LearnA degree in Chemistry at Western means learning the tools

and techniques of chemistry along with the theoretical

background required to interpret experimental results and

develop new reaction pathways and compounds. The broad

range of knowledge acquired and the numeracy, deductive

and inductive skills secured are key in the development of

our “career-ready” graduates.

CareersIn addition to the option of entering professional areas such

as finance, law, medicine, business and teaching, options

for Chemistry graduates include research in government,

industry and academic laboratories; process development

and control work; detection and characterization of trace

substances; and technical sales and service.

The Chemistry professors are so approachable and so passionate about what they teach. We can tell they really want us to succeed.

– Lizzy (Sydney) Davenport

Sydney received two NSERC Industrial Undergraduate Student Research Awards leading to an internship at 3M, where she designed, built and operated thermal performance instruments, and a work placement with a large automotive firm, where she contributed to the development of a magnesium alloy coating.

She is also a downhill ski racing coach and has run multiple half-marathons in support of local charities.


Facilities Tailored for Optimal Learning

Our recently renovated first-year labs are flooded with natural light,

offer large workstations designed to support learning collaborations and

are fitted with computer-controlled modular equipment to simulate an

authentic lab environment found in government and industry.

Professional Development

Chemistry students are highly sought interns in industry and

government. Our Science Internship Program facilitates discipline-

relevant placements for 8- to 16-months. Those students completing a

senior thesis project also acquire both research and corporate skills, in

particular in their preparation for mock interviews with representatives

from our alumni and industry community.

Authentic Learning

Part of becoming a professional chemist involves gaining hands-on

research experience, preparing technical manuscripts and presenting

posters at discipline-specific conferences. On average, 25 chemistry

students secure summer research positions with the department.

All of our students acquire experience in poster development and

presentation in analytical chemistry while students in the Undergraduate

Thesis course routinely participate in the annual Southwestern Ontario

Undergraduate Student Chemistry Conference (SOUSCC).

Honors Specialization Modules

In addition to Chemistry modules, we offer two Honors Specialization

modules jointly with the Department of Biochemistry. The Biochemistry

and Chemistry module has an emphasis in chemistry and is available to

students enrolled in the science program. The Chemical Biology module

has an emphasis in biochemistry, and is offered to students enrolled in

the Basic Medical Sciences Program. These modules comprise of

courses from both disciplines, and they both offer Thesis Research

courses enabling students to gain experience in interdisciplinary

research laboratories.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

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Computer science drives innovation in the 21st century.

From influencing the space program and contributing to

models of personalized medicine, to solving life and business

challenges through big data applications, computer science is

all about exploring possibilities and influencing outcomes.

The Department of Computer Science at Western is responsive

to rapidly changing businesses, social and natural landscapes,

and providing students with innovative programs, courses,

co-ops and extracurricular learning opportunities which

reflect focus areas of greatest interest to students and their

potential employers.

What You’ll LearnThe work of a computer scientist falls into several categories, and

students in the Department of Computer Science at Western acquire

skills and experience in all. Undergraduates learn skills that will allow them

to design and build software as well as develop effective ways to solve

computing problems, including storing information in databases, sending

data over networks, and providing new solutions to cyber-security issues.

Our students also acquire the expertise needed to devise new and better

ways to address challenges in big data, game development, medical

imaging, social and mobile computing and in bioinformatics.

CareersOur flagship programs in Computer Science grant degrees that are

accredited by the Computer Science Accreditation Council (CSAC) and the

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS), facilitating subsequent

professional certification as an Information Systems Professional and

Information Technology Certified Professional.

Computer Science graduates at Western are prepared for careers

in the following fields:

I came to university wanting to learn a bit about everything and Western is the perfect place to do just that. I was stimulated by my capable peers, the collaborative intellectual environment, and professors who cared as much about my personal growth as they did about research. I’ve grown much as a scientist, and even more so as a person.

– Weige (Charlie) Zhao

Charlie is the founder of SCINAPSE and initiator of the SCINAPSE Undergraduate Science Case Competition which, in just its first three years of operation, engaged nearly two thousand science students from a variety of disciplines and 10 universities to develop research proposals addressing real science-based challenges. An NSERC USRA Scholarship recipient, Charlie’s own research focused on biological modelling using artificial intelligence and he is a named contributor to research featured in the journal, Nature.


Minors in Game Development

and Software Engineering

In 2016, the Princeton Review named Western Computer

Science among the top destinations in the world to study

game design. Our Minor in Game Development examines

the design and programming of games, leveraging the latest

engines and technologies, and culminates in a year-long

game development project modelled after industry practices.

Western was one of the first universities in Canada and

around the world to introduce studies in gaming.

The Software Engineering module offers courses that

develop knowledge and skills needed to design, implement

and manage large software projects in a practical,

industrial setting.

Honors Specialization in Medical Health Informatics

Medical Health Informatics sits at the intersection of

information and computer science, medicine and healthcare.

This interdisciplinary module explores how data are collected,

processed and used in a healthcare setting while developing

an applied expertise in a rapidly emerging field.

Authentic Learning Contexts

Learning in real-world contexts prepares our students for

successful integration into the workforce. Future game

developers benefit from courses set up as game development

studios. Students take on leadership roles in simulated

consultant firms and assume ownership of technical

deliverables and project management responsibilities,

from the determination of requirements and production of

timelines, to communications with the client.

Entrepreneurship

You don’t have to wait until the completion of your degree to

get started on a career in computer science. At Western, the

Propel Program provides institutional support and guidance

to students who are prepared to take their innovations to

market through tech transfer facilitation, intellectual

property protection, or business planning, resulting in

a start-up enterprise.

• Database Administrator

• Data Modeller

• Data Scientist

• E-Commerce Analyst

• Game Developer

• Mobile Developer

• Multimedia Programmer

• Network Administrator

• Network Analyst

• Programmer Analyst

• Researcher

• Security Analyst

• Software Engineer

• Systems Analyst

• Systems Engineer

• Technology Manager

• User Interface Designer

• Web Developer

EARTH

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Earth Sciences is the study of the history, structures and

processes that shape planet Earth. Earth Sciences involves

a significant breadth of topics including planetary structure

and composition, plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes,

natural resources, and the history of life on Earth. Although

the profession focuses on opportunities to explore, extract,

analyze, understand and monetize raw planetary materials,

an equally important and rapidly evolving segment of an Earth

Scientist’s career focuses on the protection of Earth and its

most precious natural resources.

What You’ll LearnThe highlight of my undergraduate degree so far has been my field school course. It was hard work but was a wonderful learning experience. I worked with classmates and professors to better understand concepts and transfer my classroom knowledge to real-life field situations, allowing me to become a better-rounded scientist.

– Sarah McFadden

Sarah is President of The Outcrop Club – the undergraduate Earth Sciences Society. She participated in a month-long analogue mission to simulate the mission control operations that are used for rovers on Mars and served as the Mars Analogue Mission Documentarian.

• Management of water resources and remediation of contaminated sites

• Metal and Industrial Mining and Exploration

• Natural Hazards Research

• Petroleum Industry: Exploration and Development

• Resource evaluation for private and public sector organizations

• Satellite and land-based imaging for exploration

• The tectonic mechanisms that

create earthquakes and

volcanic eruptions

• The processes that occur

within the planet, that shape

its surface, and that control

its atmosphere

• The origin, occurrence,

extraction and conservation

of Earth’s natural resources,

including minerals, fossil fuels,

soils, and water

• The role of Earth within the Solar

System, and the history of life

on Earth

CareersThere is a major demand for geoscientists worldwide. Careers in

the Earth Sciences are quite diverse, ranging from work in high-tech

industrial research laboratories to corporate and government offices,

and to field programs in some of the most remote areas of the world.

Options:

SCIENCESDISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Interdisciplinary/Collaborative Programs

The Earth Sciences are highly interdisciplinary, using

elements of all of the other sciences in studying Earth

and other planets. Our department offers collaborative

programs in Geology and Biology, Environmental

Geoscience and Planetary Science and Space Exploration.

Field Courses Across the Globe

Western’s Department of Earth Sciences offers more

undergraduate field courses than any other similar

department in Canada. All of our modules involve field

components with opportunities for travel within Ontario

and the Maritimes, as well as abroad to places such as

South Africa, Brazil, the Philippines, and Finland.

Professional Programs

The Department of Earth Sciences offers Honors degree

modules in Geology, Geophysics, and Environmental

Geoscience that fulfill the requirements for professional

registration as set by the Association of Professional

Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) and the Canadian

Council of Professional Geoscientists (CCPG). Students

graduating from one of our professional programs will

meet all knowledge requirements toward becoming a

professional geoscientist qualified to practice in Canada.

ENVIRONMENTAL

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The Honors Specialization in Environmental Science provided me with the flexibility to explore my interests in a variety of disciplines. It was because of this flexibility, and the experience that I gained during my honors thesis, that I decided to attend graduate school at Western.

– Rebecca Doyle

Rebecca travelled to the remote Uinta Mountains in Utah to collect samples for her fourth-year thesis project which involved using stable isotope science to characterize sources of organic matter to lake sediments.

SCIENCEThe Centre for Environment and Sustainability was created

in 2007 to provide and foster an interdisciplinary platform

for teaching and research on environment and sustainability.

Interdisciplinarity is the key to environmental science.

The Centre brings together the strengths of the Faculties

of Science, Engineering, Social Science, Arts & Humanities,

Information & Media Studies, the Schulich School of

Medicine & Dentistry, the Richard Ivey School of Business

and the Faculty of Law. Our students take courses that bring

them a wide variety of outlooks on processing environmental

issues ranging from biodiversity loss, access to safe and clean

water, energy, renewable resources, to ecosystem health,

natural disasters, and sustainable business practices.

What You’ll LearnOur students learn to communicate environmental science across

disciplines and to apply knowledge from these different fields to develop

solutions to real-world issues. Building on a solid core of science –

including content in biology, chemistry, mathematics, earth sciences,

geographic information science and physical geography – Environmental

Science students have the added benefit of access to training in other

disciplines ranging from anthropology, business, and economics, to

First Nations studies, philosophy, political science, human geography

and sociology.

CareersThe environmental sector is one of the fastest growing and diverse

job markets in Canada. Our students go on to careers in resource

industries, sustainability positions in businesses of all kinds,

conservation, environmental policy, environmental research,

and environmental education.


Research Opportunities

All of our undergraduate students pursuing an Honors

Specialization in Environmental Science undertake a

two-semester research project with a Western faculty

member engaged in environmental science research in

any one of a number of disciplines including biology,

chemistry, earth science, geography, engineering or

business. Students pursuing the Specialization or Major

modules may conduct a one-semester research project.

The opportunity to work in state-of-the-art research

facilities, like the BIOTRON for climate change research,

is one of the benefits that sets Environmental Science at

Western apart.

Field Schools

Field courses and exchange semesters incorporating

field studies provide some of the best hands-on learning

opportunities in environmental science. The range of

destinations is broad, but all yield unforgettable

experiences and build skills and knowledge that may

have seemed abstract in lectures.

Bridging/Articulation Agreements/

Advanced Standing

Students coming to Western with a two-year Environmental

Technician or three-year Environmental Technology

Advanced Diploma from many Ontario colleges (or Science

Lab Technician Diploma from Fanshawe College) can

receive advanced standing credits towards a range of

Environmental Science degrees. Western students can

also take their Environmental Science degree to Fanshawe

for advanced standing in an Environmental Technology

Diploma. Other institutions, such as Durham College, offer

compressed, fast-track programs to students who have

completed a BSc degree.

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Mathematics is the rigorous study of quantity, structure,

space and change. In 1623, Galileo wrote that mathematics is

the language of science, and it is no less true today. Research

in pure mathematics is more active now in the 21st century

than ever in the past. While a beautiful and intriguing subject

of study in itself, contemporary mathematics provides a

solid foundation for every modern scientific endeavour

from quantum mechanics to quantitative finance.

What You’ll LearnModern mathematics is classified into broad divisions: foundations,

algebra, analysis, combinatorics, and geometry and topology. Students

will gain a working knowledge of each of these subjects. For example,

logic and the concept of mathematical proof are a part of foundations,

while number theory, group theory and cryptography are fields in

modern algebra.

Topics of Study:

All of my professors in the Mathematics department have done an outstanding job of getting to know their students and tailoring their lectures to pique student interest while showcasing elements of their individual research.

The versatile and interdisciplinary nature of my mathematics degree highly influenced my decision to jump into industry as a data scientist.

– Helen Ngo

Helen serves as a Math/Applied Math representative on the Science Students’ Council and is an active participant in the Math Scholars Group.


Mathematics in Society

These modules are perfect for students considering a

career or graduate degree in any logically or analytically

intensive field, such as economics, finance, business, and

law. In addition to a set of core mathematics courses, a

broad spectrum of mathematically-oriented courses from

other disciplines can be counted towards this module,

including particular courses in Applied Mathematics,

Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Economics,

Financial Modelling, Philosophy, and the Statistical

and Actuarial Sciences.

In Forbes Magazine, Mathematician was listed as the

“third-best job” in 2015.

• Calculus

• Combinatorial mathematics

• Cryptography

• Discrete mathematics

• Functional analysis

• Game theory

• Group, ring and field theory

• Linear algebra

• Mathematical reasoning

• Metric spaces and topology

• Number theory

• Real and complex analysis

CareersThe analytical and problem-solving skills students learn in

mathematics can apply to all disciplines. Mathematicians conduct

research in any environment where information is analyzed and

used to identify patterns. Due to the increased importance placed

on technology, big data and economic efficiency by all kinds of

organizations across the globe, mathematicians are increasingly

in demand.

• Cryptologist

• Data Scientist

• Financial Analyst

• Geophysical Analyst

• Information security

• Information technology

• Intelligence Analyst

• Management Consultant

• Market research

• Operations research

• Statistical research

• Systems Analyst

Many students graduating from our program choose to pursue

graduate degrees in mathematics while others go on to careers in

business, economics, investment banking, law or medicine.

Some Options:

ASTRONOMY

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Physics and astronomy involves the study of matter, forces,

and energy as they relate to the understanding of our

environment from Earth to the distant reaches of the universe.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy studies natural

phenomena such as star formation, the Earth’s atmosphere,

and meteors. They also study the applications of physics to

medicine in the form of imaging and radiotherapy; as well as

technology – specifically, nanofabrication, optoelectronic

devices, and biomaterials.

What You’ll LearnPhysics is a foundational discipline of STEM careers and enables

students to develop logical reasoning skills based on underlying

principles. Our undergraduates also acquire proficiency in problem-

solving, mathematics, experimental design, computer simulation, and

data analysis while experiencing the tools and techniques of modern

high technology.

CareersAll of our students are well-prepared to enter graduate school to become

professionals in rapidly evolving disciplines. Graduates are employed

worldwide in fields as diverse as pure and applied research, medicine,

engineering, teaching, science journalism, and finance.

Career examples include:

My research experiences have not only taught me about how real science is conducted but have opened my eyes to the myriad of physics questions studied in astronomy.

Sharing the wonder of science with high school students, youth from the Boys and Girls Clubs and the general public has been a joy during my time at Western.

– Nathalie Chantal Thibert

Nathalie presented the results of her honors thesis on winds surrounding supermassive black holes at a meeting of the National Science Foundation at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Charlottesville, Virginia and was awarded an NSERC Undergraduate Summer Research Award to study galaxy evolution as a function of environment.

PHYSICS &

• Academic and industrial scientist

• Data Scientist

• Financial Analyst

• Educator

• Entrepreneur tech start-up

• Government Scientist in weather forecasting and climate prediction

• Imaging Medical Physicist

• Radiation Oncologist

Recent graduates have gone on to work as industry scientists at medical

imaging companies, software specialists working with big data and

completing MD degrees at Ontario medical schools.


Astrophysics

Our Astrophysics modules emphasize the study of the

physics of the universe and its components. Offering a

combination of astronomy and physics courses, students

learn about a wide range of topics including the life of

stars and black holes, and the evolution of the universe

from the most diverse astronomy group in Canada. With

the skills acquired in this module, our graduates stand out

with their involvement in cutting-edge research, including

the recent discovery of gravitational waves and new

planets beyond our solar system.

Medical Physics

Western is home to one of the largest groups of medical

physics researchers in Canada, with instrumentation,

experimental, clinical and theoretical research interests.

Our modules in Medical Physics are perfect for students

who are interested in medicine or medical imaging,

captivated by physics and who look forward to

gaining hands-on lab experience with world-class

medical physicists.

Faculty mentorship and research skill development

In their final year, students synthesize their experience by

undertaking a significant research project with a faculty

member. Financial support for undergraduate research is

made available each summer to support experiential

learning and the development of professional skill sets and

network development.

Developing skills, networks, and confidence

The ability to share scientific understanding within

and well beyond the scientific community is one of the

hallmarks of success for our students. The undergraduate

seminar course brings together students in all years of the

Physics and Astronomy modules to train confident and

effective speakers and presenters of complex material.

Our Physics and Astronomy Student Association (PASA)

hosts an annual research conference and multiple social

events throughout the year.

STATISTICAL & ACTUARIAL SCIENCES

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Statistics is the art and science of making conclusions from

data; it is particularly useful when deciding how to manage

complicated systems, and essential to decide questions like:

Is this medical treatment worth doing? Did this marketing

campaign work? Is my investment advisor adding value?

Our undergraduate statistics programs instruct students in

these techniques, which has become increasingly important

in our complicated, but data-rich, modern world.

Our department also trains actuaries, who are statistically

sophisticated business professionals who assess the

probability and financial impacts of personal challenges

such as premature death, major illness, car crash, or

property damage due to wind, fire, or flood. Actuaries

are the brains of insurance companies, which create

and manage financial products designed to mitigate

these impacts.

Financial risks also come from markets, such as rising

interest rates when it’s time to renew a home mortgage,

changing interest rates negatively impacting vacation plans,

or a stock market crash requiring a delayed retirement.

Our program in financial modeling teaches how to quantify,

hedge, and manage such financial risks.

What You’ll LearnOur Statistics courses give you the tools to collect, analyze and

interpret data using probability and other mathematical tools while

also enabling you to develop mathematical and stochastic models

for phenomena occurring in business, engineering, medicine

and government. For example, SS3850 in applied data analysis

combines techniques learned in earlier courses to give our

students a comprehensive ability to analyze real data using modern

computer-based statistical methods.

Actuarial Science courses at Western provide the ability to apply

existing models and develop new models and methods used in the

analysis and management of risk associated with adverse life events

like premature death and disability. For example, Loss Models

courses AS3424 and AS4824 explore the techniques used to

manage an insurance company to ensure that it has enough capital

to withstand the claims that might be made. Our Life Contingencies

courses – AS2427, AS3429, and AS3431 – also investigate the

complexities of modelling life expectancy for the purposes of setting

insurance premiums.

A Financial Modelling education will train you to apply advanced

mathematical, computational and statistical techniques to problems

arising in modern financial markets. Our Financial Modelling course

FM2557, Financial Markets and Investments, teaches a quantitative

understanding of the stocks, bonds, and options traded on worldwide

financial markets, while courses FM3613B, FM3520B and FM4521B

give students an in-depth quantitative understanding of how to price

and hedge derivative securities, such as options.

CareersAcquiring expertise in statistical methods positions our students to

pursue careers in engineering, politics, financial management,

insurance, marketing, medicine and social science. Future actuaries

will apply their knowledge of mathematics, probability, and statistics to

financial problems involving future uncertainty. Their strong financial

modelling skills mean that our graduates are primed to succeed in the

pricing and hedging of portfolios of stocks, bonds, and their derivative

securities as well as in the analysis and quantification of financial risk

in large financial institutions.

Actuarial Science is hard. That was the first thing I learned. I’ve also learned that if you put in the time, effort, and ask any faculty member for help, then you can succeed in the program and set up a rewarding career.

– Kristen Long

Kristen was VP of Events for the Statistical and Actuarial Science Club. She completed a 16-month internship with London Life through the Science Internship Program and is beginning her career as an actuary at a firm in Tennessee.

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Industry Responsive

As a result of an integrated approach to learning about

actuarial science and financial modelling, our students

are positioned to respond successfully to the evolving

needs of financial institutions that increasingly manage

fiduciary and investment risk simultaneously.

The Department of Statistical and Actuarial Sciences at

Western is the only department of its kind in Canada to

focus on soft-skill development by offering a dedicated

business skills course.

Several actuarial scholarships are awarded yearly that

provide for an aggregate payout of up to $45,000

annually to undergraduate students in our Actuarial

Science modules. Included are scholarships that are

exclusively merit-based as well as industry sponsored

scholarships that consider other attributes such as

leadership skills. Currently, there are three London Life

Actuarial Career Scholarships and one Manulife Financial

Scholarship awarded annually, as well as the Freeman

of the City of London of North America Scholarship that

provides $5,000 for a student pursuing an exchange

program in London, England.

Western has been designated as a Centre of

Actuarial Excellence by the Society of Actuaries (SOA),

and our Actuarial Science students can pursue

professional qualification by the SOA and the Casualty

Actuarial Society.

Western is accredited by the Canadian Institute of

Actuaries (CIA) and students pursuing a Fellowship in

the CIA may receive exam exemptions for courses

taken at Western.

Our university is also accredited by the Statistical

Society of Canada (SSC) and students completing a

degree in statistics may receive accreditation as an

Associate Statistician.

BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

BASIC MEDICAL

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The Bachelor of Medical Sciences (BMSc) degree is a

four-year degree offered jointly by the Faculty of Science

and the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. It is designed

for students interested in advanced study of one or more of

the basic medical sciences. This joint approach provides the

opportunity to learn and understand the interrelationship

between the basic and clinical medical sciences and to explore

one or more of the disciplines in depth.

Students interested in the BMSc Program should apply to the

Faculty of Science by selecting ESM (Medical Sciences) on the

Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) application.

In Medical Sciences 1 and 2, students are registered in the

Faculty of Science, and take predominantly science courses

(biology, chemistry, genetics, cell biology, etc.). Admission to

the BMSc Program occurs in Year 3, at which time registration

switches to the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and

the study of the basic medical science courses (biochemistry,

physiology, microbiology, etc.) begins. Students admitted via

Medical Sciences are assured admission to the BMSc Program

in Year 3 following the successful completion of Medical

Sciences 1 and 2, with the appropriate courses and marks.

The Basic Medical Sciences departments offer 20 different

Honors Specialization modules, 8 Specialization modules,

9 Major modules and 5 Minor modules, the latter two of

which are available to students in any program at Western.

BMSc students can combine the HBA degree (Business

Administration) from the Ivey Business School with either

the Honors Specialization in Biochemistry or the Honors

Specialization in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS)

and graduate with two Honors degrees in five years.

SCIENCES

• Data analysis

• Graduate studies

• Investigators of foodborne, waterborne, plant and animal diseases

• Mobile health technology industry and its applications

• Pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry where skills will be applied to the careful design and interpretation of clinical trials

• Professional schools and programs in medicine, dentistry, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, education and law

• Public health policy makers for infectious disease control

• Safety monitors/quality assurance in the food industry, water treatment, agriculture, pollution control

• Sales, marketing, and technical support for scientific and medical suppliers

• Scientific and clinical research in academia, hospitals (clinical trials, diagnostic labs), industry (biotechnology and pharmaceutics), or government laboratories

CareersGraduates will have the background and foundation to follow many

career paths in academia, research, or the health science and

healthcare sector.

Options Post-Graduation:

Nick is completing an Honors Specialization in Physiology and Pharmacology in the BMSc Program. He is the incoming President of the Bachelor of Medical Sciences Association (BMSA) and serves his community off-campus as a volunteer at the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario.

Getting involved with scientific research through NSERC has helped me strengthen many problem-solving skills that I was able to utilize in my course work outside of the lab. This experience has sparked my interest in getting involved with clinical research in my future career.

– Nick Tonial

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/bmsc

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The department offers a wide range of modular options in

Medical Cell Biology, which is the study of humans at the

molecular, cellular, tissue and systemic level. The modules

integrate information from each of these areas to yield an

understanding of the relationship between structure and

function in the organism as a whole.

What You’ll LearnCourses offered in Medical Cell Biology modules allow students to

explore the anatomical features of all the human body systems and

study the relationship of structure and function at macroscopic and

microscopic levels. They develop an understanding of how cells in the

human body interact when forming tissues, maintaining homeostasis and

regulating behaviour, and learn about the cellular mechanisms governing

normal and pathological processes such as cancer, cardiovascular

disease, and mental disorders.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/anatomy

BIOCHEMISTRY ANATOMY &CELL BIOLOGY


The Medical Cell Biology program offered at Western focuses

on understanding the structure and function of cells and

tissues and what goes wrong in diseases such as cancer. The

program is taught by dedicated faculty including award-

winning teachers and scientists that are internationally

recognized in their fields of research.

Joint Modules

The department partners with the Department of Biochemistry

to offer the joint Honors Specialization in Biochemistry

and Cell Biology which includes foundational courses in

biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics, cell biology,

and more advanced courses in biochemical regulation,

biological macromolecules, and advanced medical cell

biology. Understanding of normal structure and function is

supplemented through course work in mammalian histology,

physiology or human anatomy. Students gain research

experience in third-year biochemistry and cell biology labs

and in their fourth-year work with a faculty member on a

research project.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/biochem

Biochemistry is the study of the molecules and mechanisms essential

to life. Biochemists strive to understand how living systems function at

the molecular level including how cells build and maintain the chemical

structures necessary for life; the ways in which organisms obtain

and use energy; and how living systems sense and respond to their

environment.

Of particular interest within the biochemistry modules is understanding

the structure, function and regulation of biomolecules as they relate to

disease, looking at:


Joint Modules

Biochemistry offers joint modules like the Honors

Specialization in Biochemistry of Infection and Immunity,

in which students experience a wide spectrum of

learning from an introduction to foundational concepts

in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, and

immunology to exposure to advanced concepts in

biochemical regulation, biological macromolecules,

and biology of infection and immunity. They develop an

understanding of bacterial pathogenesis and molecular

virology with supplementary courses in molecular

biology of DNA, RNA, and proteins.

Practical Research Experience

The Department of Biochemistry offers multiple research

courses to third- and fourth-year students with an

emphasis on experimental design, critical thinking, and

scientific communication.

• Mechanisms of drug action and

molecular-targeted therapies;

• molecular structure, mechanism

and dynamics, and the molecular

basis of disease;

• gene expression and

cellular communication; and

• synthetic biology and

chemical biology.

What You’ll LearnStudents can obtain Honors degrees specializing in biochemistry

or computational biochemistry or in joint modules combining

biochemistry with chemistry, microbiology, cell biology, pathology,

medical biophysics, or genetics. Students may also complete the

combined BMSc/HBA program with an Honors Specialization

in Biochemistry.

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Epidemiology is the discipline concerned with studying

the determinants and distribution of diseases in human

populations. Biostatistics is the discipline that develops

and discovers new statistical methods for collecting,

analyzing and interpreting the data arising from medical

and epidemiologic studies.

What You’ll LearnWorking with a vibrant faculty of epidemiologists, biostatisticians,

and physicians who are dedicated to policy-relevant research,

students develop skills that will allow them to contribute to health

policy by providing data relevant to health promotion and

illness-prevention programs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/epibio

BIOPHYSICSEPIDEMIOLOGY& BIOSTATISTICS

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/biophysics

Medical Biophysics is an interdisciplinary field in which the principles

and laws of the physical sciences are applied to investigate biological

processes relevant in medical applications. This involves collaboration

between physicists, biologists, and clinical scientists to learn about

diseases and their processes, and to improve diagnosis and treatment.

The teaching and research focus is on the biophysics of the human

body and of higher animals. Biological function is explored from

the point of view of biochemistry and energy transformation,

medical imaging, medical radiation physics and biology, oncology,

biomechanics, microcirculation, and biological systems control.

What You’ll LearnTheoretical, experimental, and applied sciences courses help students

develop the required background in Medical Biophysics. Students use

basic mathematical tools for a quantitative analysis through “hands-on”

laboratory work in a research environment. Areas of study within Medical

Biophysics modules facilitate the conceptual understanding of a wide

range of biophysical approaches to research.


Honors Specialization in Epidemiology

and Biostatistics

This specialization provides students with exposure to a

variety of courses in the disciplines of epidemiology, applied

biostatistics, health services research, health economics and

clinical epidemiology, allowing students to develop:

• Mastery of the methods needed to design clinical and

population studies;

• the analytical and critical thinking skills needed to analyze

and interpret health data;

• an understanding of how epidemiologic studies are used

to identify genetic and environmental causes of major

diseases; and

• an understanding of how the knowledge from

epidemiologic research is used to make policy and

practice recommendations for health and public health

services delivery.

Epidemiology and biostatistics is the only population-based

discipline, so results from studies can apply directly to

clinical advances and public health practice. Interests among

department researchers span the life course and include

investigations of infectious and chronic diseases. Examples

include studies investigating the effects of pregnancy on

the long-term course of multiple sclerosis among Canadian

women, the cost-effectiveness of breast cancer treatments,

and the factors associated with falls in elderly individuals.

MEDICAL


Our program is unique in its research-oriented,

multidisciplinary approach to studying biological

processes, measurement techniques, and treatments

relevant to medical applications. Our third-year

research projects allow students to interact directly

with faculty and gain substantial experience in solving

medically-relevant problems.

Medical Imaging

Medical Biophysics hosts a number of world-renowned

scientists in the field, who investigate the science and

practical issues of medical imaging techniques such

as ultrasound, CT (Computed Tomography) and MRI

(Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Honors Specialization in Medical Biophysics

(Medical Science Concentration)

In addition to Medical Biophysics courses, this module

includes a range of courses from computer science

to physiology and biochemistry, providing a strong

background to pursue graduate studies in disease

diagnosis and therapy using a quantitative approach.


(Clinical Physics Concentration)

This module prepares students for taking CAMPEP-

accredited graduate programs necessary for Medical

Physicist residency.


and Biochemistry

This new module equips students to understand

quantitative aspects of molecular and cellular systems,

including interactions of DNA, RNA and proteins and the

governing physical laws.

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Microbiology is the study of organisms too small to be seen

with the naked eye, including bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi

and protozoa. Immunology is the study of the immune system,

which functions to protect us from disease-causing microbes

and cancer. However, it can malfunction and cause a variety

of clinical disorders like autoimmune diseases and allergies.

Our program includes some environmental microbiology but

emphasizes clinical microbiology and immunology.

What You’ll LearnMicrobiology courses explore how microbes exist and affect our health

through the study of:

Immunology courses provide students with an understanding of:

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/microbiologyandimmunology

LABORATORYMICROBIOLOGY& IMMUNOLOGY

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/pathol

Pathology is the study of human disease and involves genetic,

molecular, cellular, and organ level investigation of disease

processes. Scientific research is the cornerstone of pathology as

understanding the disease process contributes to the development

of diagnostic tests and better treatments. The practice of pathology

includes the examination of tissues, isolated cells, and surgical

specimens. In surgical pathology, for instance, pathologists perform

microscopic examination of tissues to determine the nature of

disease. The pathologist’s findings and diagnosis often guide medical

treatment and indicate how the patient will do.

What You’ll LearnKnowledge about human diseases comes from both clinical and

experimental pathology, through observations made on patients and

patient specimens, by looking at the causes and mechanisms of disease

and the effects of disease upon various organs and body systems, and

via experimental studies on tissues, cell cultures or animal models to

understand the mechanisms of disease initiation and progression.


Within the Microbiology & Immunology and joint Honors

Specialization modules, such as the Honors Specialization in

Microbiology & Immunology with Pathology, students perform

independent research in areas that include the development of

vaccines, immunotherapeutics or antimicrobials; microbiome/

probiotics in human health; immunology of multiple sclerosis,

rheumatoid arthritis, allergy, cancer, graft rejection; bacterial/

viral pathogenesis in HIV, toxic shock syndrome, gastrointestinal

infections, cancers; antimicrobial resistance; and bacteria as

biofuels and biological controls. Honors students have the

option to continue research for one additional year for an

accelerated MSc degree.

International Research Experience

Our department offers unique research opportunities in Africa

plus fellowships for second- and third-year students to perform

independent research over the summer.

PATHOLOGY &

• Microbial structure,

classification, genomes

and evolution;

• ways that microbes infect hosts

and cause disease;

• impact of the microbiome on

human health;

• relevance of microbes in

industry and the environment;

• antimicrobial therapies

and challenges; and

• techniques used to isolate,

culture and identify bacteria.

• How the immune system

eliminates/controls cancer

cells and microbes that cause

infectious diseases;

• how defects in the immune

system can lead to conditions

like allergy, transplant rejection,

and autoimmune diseases such

as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1

diabetes, multiple sclerosis;

• vaccine strategies

and challenges; and

• techniques used to evaluate

immune health and measure

immune responses.

MEDICINEDISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Many of our faculty are practicing pathologists and most

are involved in state-of-the-art research.

Modules in Pathology

These modules introduce students to basic principles

within pathology and the effects of a variety of chemicals,

drugs and toxins on living organisms. To develop an

understanding of the normal body, foundational courses

in biology, biochemistry, anatomy and histology, and

physiology and pharmacology are taken prior to delving

into the areas of abnormal structure and function.

Introductory pathology courses cover basic disease

processes and their appearance in specific

organ systems such as the heart, lungs, and brain.

Senior-level courses examine more advanced concepts

in both clinical and experimental pathology and an

introduction to forensic science.

Joint Modules: An Honors Specialization in

Medical Health Informatics

This specialization is offered in conjunction with the

Department of Computer Science, bringing together

computer sciences, the medical sciences, and

healthcare. Students combine foundational courses

in both the medical sciences (such as understanding

the biochemistry and pathophysiology of disease) and

computer sciences (in algorithms, data structures,

databases, computer networks and human-computer

interaction) to effectively use health-related data and

implement new technologies in the health system.

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Physiology is the study of how the body works. It examines

how living systems operate at many levels, including the

molecular level; the organ and systems level; and the whole

organism level and how the genome translates into function

at these levels.

Pharmacology is the study of drug actions on biological

systems. It embraces knowledge of the sources of drugs,

chemical properties of drugs, biological effects and

therapeutic uses of drugs.

What You’ll LearnAreas of study within Physiology:

Areas of study within Pharmacology:

MEDICAL SCIENCES PHYSIOLOGY &PHARMACOLOGY

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/bmsc/ims

Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) modules are designed for

students who want to study more than one of the basic medical

science disciplines. Undergraduates pursuing this option study at

least two disciplines at an advanced (fourth year) level and gain a

broad foundation in the basic medical science disciplines.

What You’ll LearnOur students are exposed to cutting-edge research by world-renowned

scientists and clinicians and experience a wide variety of hands-on

laboratory techniques used in medical research.


The Department of Physiology and Pharmacology has many

award-winning lecturers and offers an option to complete an

accelerated Master’s degree. In this program, eligible students

can complete both their HSP in Physiology and Pharmacology

and MSc in Physiology and Pharmacology in a total of 5 years.

Honors Specialization and Specialization

modules in Physiology, Pharmacology or

Physiology & Pharmacology

The undergraduate labs in Physiology and Pharmacology allow

students to design and conduct experiments to determine

how our body systems function and how drugs can intervene

to treat disease. These labs are conducted in a state-of-the-art,

recently renovated space. In addition, students in our Honors

Specialization modules work on a research project alongside

a faculty member in an attempt to advance the treatment of

disease. Students in the fourth year of the Honors Specialization

programs have a diverse selection of course offerings that

specialize in important areas of physiology and pharmacology.

Examples include neurophysiology/pharmacology, reproductive

and fetal physiology, skeletal physiology, clinical pharmacology,

cardiovascular physiology, and pharmacology. These fourth-

year classes build off a systems-based approach used to teach

physiology and pharmacology in the third year of the programs.

INTERDISCIPLINARY

• Life processes: how they work and

are regulated;

• diseases and how to treat them; and

• how living organisms

cope with or adapt to

different environments.

• How drugs work at the cellular and

molecular level;

• the use of drugs as tools to dissect

aspects of cell function;

• the formulation of clinical guidelines

for the safe and effective use

of drugs;

• how new synthetic drugs

improve on existing

drugs; and

• how to treat new

human conditions.


Honors Specialization Module

IMS is the choice for approximately 40% of the students

enrolled in the BMSc program. The flexibility to study

at least two basic medical science disciplines is a major

attraction of this module. During Years 3 and 4, students

take several basic medical science courses, including a

required third-year laboratory course. In Year 4, students

complete an interdisciplinary disease-focused lecture and

laboratory course, as well as advanced level courses in the

basic medical sciences.

Students in IMS can graduate in five years with

two honors degrees by combining a BMSc degree

(Honors Specialization in IMS) and an HBA degree

(Business Administration) in conjunction with the Ivey

Business School.

Greater flexibility in third-year course selection facilitates

participation in high impact learning opportunities like

Western’s international exchanges.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/physpharm

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Neuroscience asks questions about the brain, mind, and

behaviour using the methods of cellular and molecular biology,

genetics, imaging, and cognitive science. Neuroscience is an

interdisciplinary field undergoing rapid growth leading to new

discoveries about the fundamental biology of the nervous

system, the neural mechanisms of perception, memory and

consciousness, and the causes and treatments of diseases and

disorders of the brain and nervous system.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.schulich.uwo.ca/neuroscience


Neuroscience at Western is an interdisciplinary program that

brings together the strengths of many fields of science ranging

from basic science to human imaging. Western faculty from

Psychology, Science, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry,

the Robarts Research Institute, the Brain and Mind Institute,

and clinical departments participate in the program, providing a

wealth of knowledge and learning opportunities. Entry into the

program can be through Science, Medical Sciences or Social

Science. Enrolment is competitive and limited to 30 students.

Honors Specialization in Neuroscience

The Honors Specialization emphasizes a diversity of approaches,

critical evaluation of current research and opportunities for

research experience, and leads to a Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Honors degree granted by the Schulich School of

Medicine & Dentistry.

Professors from across the three faculties collaborate to offer

the courses and research opportunities in world-leading

research laboratories.

NEUROSCIENCE

A module is a collection of courses that defines an area of study. The number of courses included in the module is defined by the amount of specialization in the topic.

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DEGREE TYPE MODULE COMBINATIONS

Honors Bachelor Degree (4 Years/20 Courses)• Honors Specialization

• Honors Specialization–Major

• Honors Specialization–Minor

• Major–Major

Bachelor Degree (4 Years/20 Courses)

• Specialization

• Specialization–Major

• Specialization–Minor

• Major–Major

• Major

• Major–Minor

• Major–Minor–Minor

Bachelor Degree (3 Years/15 Courses)• Major

• Major–Minor

• Minor–Minor

There are four possible modules of study which may be entered

after first year:

• Honors Specialization (9.0 or more specified courses)

• Specialization (9.0 or more specified courses)

• Major (6.0 – 7.0 specified courses)

• Minor (4.0 – 5.0 specified courses)

MODULEHONORS

SPECIALIZATIONSPECIALIZATION MAJOR MINOR

Chemistry • • • •Advanced Chemistry 1 •

INTERDISCIPLINARY MODULES

Biochemistry and Chemistry 2 •

Chemical Biology 2,3 •Materials Science • • • •

1. Can only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization in Chemistry, a Specialization in Chemistry or an Honors Specialization in Biochemistry and Chemistry.

2. Offered jointly with the Department of Biochemistry.3. May be completed only within the BMSc program.

Chemistry Computer Science

MODULEHONORS


Computer Science 1 • • • •Information Systems •Applications of Computer Science •

Software Engineering 2,3 •

Computer Algebra4 •Theoretical Computer Science 4 •

Game Development 5 •High-Performance Computing •


Bioinformatics 3 •Medical Health Informatics 6 •

Digital Humanities 7 •1. The Honors Specialization and Specialization lead to accreditied degrees by the Computer

Science Accreditation Council.2. Can only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization or Specialization

in Computer Science.3. Leads to accredited degrees by the Computer Science Accreditation Council.4. Can only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization in

Computer Science.5. Can only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization, Specialization

or Major in Computer Science.6. May be completed only within the BMSc program.7. Offered jointly with the Departments of Modern Languages and Literatures.

MODULEHONORS


Biodiversity and Conservation •

Biology • • • •Genetics • • •


Animal Behaviour 1 •Geology and Biology 2 • •Ecosystem Health 3 •Genetics and Biochemistry 4 •

1. Offered jointly with the Department of Psychology.2. Offered jointly with the Department of Earth Sciences.3. Offered jointly with the Department of Environmental Science.4. Offered jointly with the Department of Biochemistry.

Biology

MODULES AT A GLANCE

Modules can be combined in three different degree-types:

MODULEHONORS


Applied Mathematics • • • •Applied Mathematical Methods

•

Mathematical Sciences 1 •

Mathematical and Numerical Methods •

Scientific Computing and Numerical Methods

•

Theoretical Physics 2 •1. Offered jointly with the Department of Mathematics.2. Can only be completed in combination with a Minor or Major in Applied Mathematics.

Applied Mathematics

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MODULEHONORS


Physics • • • •Astrophysics • • •Medical Physics • • •Advanced Physics 1 •Physics of Materials 2 •Conceptual Astronomy •


Materials Science • • • •1. May only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization or Specialization

in Physics, Astrophysics or Medical Physics.2. May only be completed in combination with an Honors Specialization or Specialization

in Physics.

Physics and Astronomy Statistical and Actuarial Sciences

MODULEHONORS


Actuarial Science • •Statistics •Applied Statistics •Financial Modelling • •

Basic Medical Sciences

MODULEHONORS


Biochemistry • • • •Biochemistry and Cell Biology •

Biochemistry of Infection and Immunity

•

Biochemistry and Pathology of Human Disease

•

Chemical Biology •Computational Biochemistry •Epidemiology and Biostatistics • •Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences • • •Medical Biophysics (Clinical Physics Concentration)

•

Medical Biophysics (Medical Science Concentration)

• • • •

Medical Biophysics and Biochemistry •

Medical Cell Biology • • •Medical Health Informatics •Microbiology and Immunology • • • •Microbiology and Immunology with Pathology

•

MODULEHONORS


One Health •Pathology • • •Pharmacology • • • •Physiology • • •Physiology and Pharmacology • •

Note: A degree containing one of the Honors Specialization modules above will lead to a BMSc (Honors) degree. Students completing one of the Specialization modules above will graduate with a 4-year BMSc (non-Honors) degree. Completion of two of the Majors above will lead to either a BMSc (Honors) or a 4-year BMSc degree, depending on the marks achieved. The IMS and Pathology Major modules must be completed in a BMSc degree. Any of the other Major modules or Minor module(s) above can be completed in other degree types, such as Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA). The majority of BMSc students choose to complete Honors Specialization modules and some elect to complete an additional Major or Minor module from either the Basic Medical Sciences or another faculty.

MODULES LEADING TO A BSc DEGREE

Biochemistry and Chemistry •Genetics and Biochemistry •Medical and Biophysics (Biological Concentration)

•

Medical Biophysics (Physical Science Concentration)

•

Neuroscience •Medical Sciences • •

The Major in Medical Sciences cannot be completed in combination with any of the following Majors: Biochemistry, Medical Biophysics, Medical Cell Biology, Microbiology and Immunology, Pharmacology, Physiology.

Earth Sciences

MODULEHONORS


Geology • • • •Geophysics • • •


Environmental Geoscience • •

Geology and Biology • •Planetary Science and Space Exploration •

EARTH SCIENCE PROGRAMS FOR PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION

Honors Geology Program

Honors Environmental Geoscience Program

Honors Geophysics Program

These programs fulfill requirements for professional registration as set by the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO) and the Canadian Council of Professional Geoscientists (CCPG).

MODULEHONORS


Environmental Science • • • •

Environmental Science

MODULEHONORS


Mathematics • • • •Mathematics in Society • •Mathematical Sciences 1 •

1. Offered jointly with the Department of Applied Mathematics.

Mathematics

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